Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater
NameSpiny-cheeked Honeyeater
Common NameSpiny-cheeked Honeyeater
Scientific NameAcanthagenys rufogularis
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly streaked brown and white, giving a scaly appearance. The head is greyish-brown with a prominent white stripe below the eye and a dark line through the eye. The throat is pale with fine streaks, and the breast and belly are heavily streaked. The back and wings are brown with paler feather edges. The tail is long and dark with white tips on the outer feathers. The bill is bright pink with a dark tip, and there is a striking blue patch of bare skin around the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, chattering, and whistling notes. It often produces a distinctive 'churring' or 'chattering' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia, inhabiting arid and semi-arid regions, including mallee, mulga, and open woodlands. It avoids dense forests and the extreme south-east and south-west coastal areas.
Identifying Featurespink bill with dark tip, blue eye-ring, streaked brown and white plumage, white stripe below eye, long tail with white tips
Description
A medium-sized Australian honeyeater characterized by its distinctive pink bill, blue eye-ring, and streaked plumage. It is an active bird, often seen foraging for nectar, insects, and fruits in arid and semi-arid woodlands.
